Legislature says goodbye to Stelmach
Posted May 12, 2011 5:15 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach has said his final goodbye to the Alberta Legislature as an MLA.
He’s served in the chamber for 18 years and has held the province’s top job since 2006.
Stelmach announced his intention to step down in January and a leadership vote is scheduled for September to determine who will replace him.
The legislature was full of clapping as Liberal Leader David Swann paid tribute to Stelmach.
“I may disagree with many of the decisions made by the premier, but I’ve never once doubted his desire to lead Alberta to a better future,” said Swann.
The sentiments were echoed by NDP Leader Brian Mason.
“I respect his energy and dedication to the things he believes in and his willingness to speak up and work hard for them,” he said of the premier.
During a news conference afterward, Stelmach said he’s leaving with his mission accomplished.
“What I committed to in the leadership and in the 2008 election; we have exceeded or met those commitments,” he told reporters. “I’ve done my best, brought about change, I think positive change for all Albertans. We introduced policies that many say would not have come from a Conservative government, whatever that means, but it was the right thing to do.”
Stelmach thanked his wife and family numerous times throughout the afternoon and says he’s looking forward to spending more time with them.
